The release said: "On behalf of the Hammond Family, today Bland Richter, is requesting in writing that the Justice Department, US Attorney’s Office and FBI intervene in the ongoing investigation into the death of Zachary Hammond because of the substantial violations of his civil rights and the need for a transparent and independent investigation of the Seneca Police Department’s policies, procedures and practices.

“While we believe in the integrity of Solicitor Chrissy Adams, as well as the integrity of SLED and its officers, the issues that surround the death of Zachary Hammond are issues of national significance. Given the resources that the Federal Government has devoted to the investigation of other similar incidents, we will request that the Federal Government intervene at this time.

“While many other recent events have involved white on black police shootings, police brutality and the excessive use of force are race neutral issues.

“The Hammond family hopes and trusts that the United States Justice Department will investigate the death of their son with the same intensity and thoroughness as it has demonstrated in other interracial settings.

“Every death of an unarmed teen, regardless of color, strips a piece of our dignity and humanity as a society.”

Hammond died about 8:20 p.m. July 26 in the parking lot at the Hardee's on Bypass 123 in Seneca.

Oconee County Coroner Karl Addis said on July 28 that the initial investigation showed Hammond was trying to evade a police stop in the parking lot. Seneca police officer Lt. Mark Tiller said he felt threatened by Hammond, who he said was driving his car toward him, according to Addis.

Addis said Tiller fired his weapon twice, hitting the teen in the side and shoulder. Hammond died at the scene,

Tori Dianna Morton, 23, who was a passenger in Hammond’s car, was charged with simple possession of marijuana.